3-Apr-21
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This podcast features Lara Beitz, a stand-up comedian, discussing her experiences in LA, the comedy scene, and the impact of the pandemic. The conversation touches on topics like crime, mental health, obesity, addiction, and the power of hard work. The podcast explores the challenges of being a woman in the comedy world and the importance of mental well-being in the face of societal upheaval.
Podcast Topics
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The Changing Landscape of LA:
- The pandemic’s impact on crime and safety in LA, with anecdotes about personal experiences and news reports.
- The perceived fear-mongering by authorities in California and the perceived overreach of lockdown measures.
- A comparison of California’s approach to the pandemic with other states, specifically Florida, highlighting contrasting policies and outcomes.
- The impact of shutdowns on businesses and the long-term economic implications for LA.
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The Importance of Comedy:
- The mental health benefits of comedy, with personal accounts of its therapeutic effects.
- The role of comedy in providing escape and joy, especially during difficult times.
- The criticism of the “cancel culture” movement in comedy, questioning the motives and impact of those who denounce live performances.
- The value of raw and unfiltered comedy, highlighting the importance of authenticity in stand-up.
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Health & Wellness:
- Lara’s personal weight loss journey and the methods she employed, including diet, exercise, and support groups.
- The importance of Vitamin D in combating COVID-19, highlighting research and personal experiences.
- The role of obesity and other health factors in COVID-19 vulnerability.
- The controversial prioritization of vaccine distribution, questioning the criteria used and the perceived lack of transparency.
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The Dark Side of Comedy:
- The experience of bombing on stage, the emotional toll, and the impact on self-esteem.
- The “shared psychotic disorder” phenomenon and how it can manifest in comedy audiences, affecting performers.
- The challenges of navigating the comedy scene, including dealing with bad opening acts, demanding audiences, and difficult venues.
- The dangers of the comedy world, including instances of harassment, stalking, and even drugging.
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Addiction:
- Lara’s personal journey with alcoholism and the impact on her career and personal life.
- The complexities of addiction, including the genetic and environmental factors involved.
- The importance of seeking help and the challenges of overcoming addiction.
- The lasting impact of addiction on personal relationships and the importance of self-care.
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The Power of Hard Work:
- The importance of discipline and dedication in achieving goals, with Lara’s journey as a comedian as an example.
- The challenges of self-management and the importance of setting realistic goals.
- The role of perseverance and resilience in navigating the ups and downs of a challenging career.
- The importance of mentorship and support in the creative process.
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The Fan Culture:
- The complexities of fan interactions and the potential for unwanted attention and harassment.
- The challenges of navigating online spaces, including the prevalence of hate and negativity.
- The importance of setting boundaries and protecting personal space, especially in the public eye.
- The potential dangers of social media and the need for online safety practices.
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Mental Health:
- The prevalence of mental health issues within the comedy community and the pressures of the industry.
- The importance of self-care and seeking support when needed.
- The impact of social isolation and the need for connection, especially during challenging times.
- The role of mindfulness practices, like meditation, in managing stress and improving well-being.
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The Future of Comedy:
- The future of live performance and the evolving comedy scene post-pandemic.
- The challenges of adapting to a changing world and the importance of remaining relevant.
- The importance of originality and authenticity in a crowded comedy landscape.
- The potential for growth and innovation within the comedy world.
Memorable Quotes
- “It’s not just fucked. Like, I tell people about it and they’re like, ‘Come on, you’re exaggerating.’ And then they go, and then they call me and go, ‘Holy shit, dude.’ Like, it’s unrecognizable.” – Lara on the dramatic changes she’s observed in LA during the pandemic.
- “I’ve been making people walk me to my car after shows because I’ve only caught a preview for the local news. And it was like a woman being put down on her face on the sidewalk while two dudes robbed her.” – Lara on the rising crime in LA and her increased vigilance.
- “It incentivizes people to do crime. It really does because, like, I’ve I I need to fucking get by. I have I gotta figure this out.” – Lara on the potential link between economic hardship and rising crime rates.
- “People are killing themselves in record numbers. It might have been one a month, and now it’s five a week, but it’s just they’re overwhelmed.” – Lara on the alarming increase in suicides, highlighting a neglected aspect of the pandemic’s impact.
- “The promise everybody wants to get there so quick. They wanna get there immediately. They wanna take a pill. They wanna listen to Dr. Oz. They wanna get there quick. You can’t fucking get there quick.” – Lara on the unrealistic expectations surrounding weight loss, emphasizing the importance of a sustainable approach.
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